In a move that has sparked intense debate, Senator Ali Ndume has boldly called on President Bola Tinubu to retract the recently unveiled list of 65 ambassadorial nominees, citing a glaring violation of Nigeria's Federal Character Principle. This principle, enshrined in the Constitution, mandates equitable representation across states and geopolitical zones in federal appointments. But here's where it gets controversial: Ndume, a seasoned lawmaker representing Borno South, argues that the current list not only falls short of this constitutional requirement but also risks exacerbating ethnic tensions at a time when national unity should be paramount.
And this is the part most people miss: the disparities in the distribution of nominees are stark. While some states boast 3 or 4 slots, others have been completely overlooked. Even more startling is the inclusion of Senator Adamu Garba Talba from Yobe, who reportedly passed away in July. Ndume highlights these inconsistencies, emphasizing that the North-east region, for instance, has only seven nominees, compared to the South-west's 15 and the North-west's 13. The South-east and South-south regions have 9 and 12 nominees, respectively, while the North-central region has 10.
In a statement that pulls no punches, Ndume warns, 'Allowing this list to pass could deepen ethnic suspicion and undermine Section 14(3) of the Constitution, which explicitly requires the federal government to reflect the country's diverse makeup.' He appeals to President Tinubu, whom he describes as a cosmopolitan leader, to withdraw the list and present a new set of nominees that truly aligns with the spirit of the Federal Character Principle. 'At this critical juncture, missteps could foster ethnic distrust,' Ndume adds, urging the president to act decisively.
The Senate is set to begin screening the nominees this week, following their submission last Thursday. The list includes 34 career ambassadors and high commissioners, as well as 31 non-career nominees. Among the career diplomats are notable figures like Ambassadors Sulu-Gambari Olatunji Ahmed (Kwara), Ahmed Mohammed Monguno (Borno), and Maimuna Ibrahim (Adamawa). The non-career nominees feature political heavyweights such as former Chief of Naval Staff Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd.), ex-presidential aide Ita Enang, and former Chief of Army Staff Lt. Gen. Abdulrahman Dambazau (retd.).
Other prominent names include Reno Omokri, former INEC Chairman Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, ex-Lagos deputy governor Otunba Femi Pedro, former Aviation Minister Chief Femi Fani-Kayode, ex-Enugu State governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, and Senator Jimoh Ibrahim. Senate insiders hint that this screening 'will not be business as usual,' with opposition senators promising a more rigorous examination of several nominees. Senate President Godswill Akpabio has given the Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs a one-week deadline to report back on the list.
But here’s the burning question: Is the Federal Character Principle being upheld in this ambassadorial list, or is it a missed opportunity to strengthen national unity? Ndume’s call for withdrawal has ignited a crucial conversation. What do you think? Should President Tinubu reconsider the list, or is this criticism unwarranted? Share your thoughts in the comments below and let’s keep the dialogue going!
